Image by: jasonclapp

Introduction

Every Christian is a disciple of Jesus. Every disciple's love for Jesus will be put in to test when they are asked to carry their own cross and follow Jesus.

Related Bible verses: Mathew 16:24 (More verses are given below)

Jesus said, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."

1. Deny yourself

i. God is number one in your life (Matthew 8:21-22)

ii. Cannot expect the best of life (Matthew 8:20)

2. Take up your cross

i. Called to identify ourselves with Jesus in his sufferings (1 Peter 2:21, 1 Peter 4:13)

ii. Identify ourselves with  shame of the cross (Hebrews 12:2)

iii. Face ridicule (Matthew 27:39)

iv. Face rejection (1 Peter 2:4)

v. Face death (Acts 10:39)

Illustration (from "Orissa burning")

"Mrs. Kamalini Naik's husband was forced to become a Hindu for which the fanatics threatened to kill his mother. Seeing his mother under their grip Mr. Naik denounced his faith.

Then they called his wife Kamalini Naik who was 7 months pregnant. She strongly stood for her faith in Christ and immediately the fanatics cut her into pieces and her one and half year son in front of her husband and other Christians."

3. Follow Jesus everyday

i. Be new in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17)

ii. Crucify self (Romans 6:1-7, 1 Peter 4:1-2)

iii. Abide in him and in his word (John 15:1-17)

Conclusion

Are you ready to take up your cross and follow Jesus?